Best for: Create varied textures and looks for lengths from bobs to long hair
My trusty old pliers are already retired a week after I got my hands on The Wand. They’re waiting in the cupboard just in case, but the new tool from Hershesons looks much sleeker and more stylish on my dressing table. I’d even go so far as to say that aesthetically it’s my favourite on the market: that cobalt colour really is a stunner.
Plus, it’s intuitive to use. The digital display, rotating temperature indicator and 360-degree cord make it a real eye-catcher. And although it took me a while to get used to the fact that the barrel isn’t tapered and the curls are therefore more even across the entire length of the hair than I’m used to, I’m happy with it now and like how, as the brand says, it’s easy to create lots of looks.
My only minor criticism is the fact that the temperature shoots up from 80 to 110 degrees at odd times. But that doesn’t change the finished look.
The speed factor is another huge benefit. My hair is long and reaches my ribs, and I could create any look I wanted in about five minutes. It was also perfect for adding texture to natural curls if I let my hair air dry the day before, without the fake waves looking out of place.
I haven’t seen the product on very thick, naturally straight hair so I can’t confirm whether it will hold curls on that texture, but you can feel the heat working quickly on the high settings so it could be a good option with enough setting product. Perhaps the Wavemaker is the better tool in this case.
Extra kudos for the fact that the finger rest on top gave me more control and prevented a rather embarrassing occasional cosmetic mistake: I burn my forehead when I straighten my baby hairs with tongs (I don’t use a flat iron). I like that the tool can be used to quickly fix short hairs or smooth down flyaways by running it along the hair shaft.
The product costs £120, which is about three quarters of the price of similar high-quality curling irons on the market, so it’s fantastic value for money for the look, feel and results. All in all, a curl and wave lover’s dream. They’re easy to do and hold as promised – and you don’t even need a skilled hand.
